Lily

Lilium species

Plants of Home and Garden

Bulbs are ideally planted in late fall, 6" deep and 1' apart. Bulbs may also be planted in early spring. Full sun to partial shade, well-drained rich soil, bulbs should never be wet for any length of time, though plants require regular watering. Mulch in summer. Note that cultural conditions can vary significantly for the hundreds of cultivars available

Tall, top-heavy species will need staking. Some species develop bulblets which are dug and removed in early fall, replanted slightly lower than their original depth. Others produce bulbils from stems or leaf axils; these also may be potted as they are produced. Propagate also by bulb scaling. Benefits from mulch protection in winter. Zone 2-9

Seeds experience double dormancy, and may be sown during the warmest part of the summer or fall, be overwintered in a cold frame or some other protected area. Soak in warm water, overnight, then sow in rich and well-draining medium, just covered. Alternatively, stratify seed for 3 months, then grow at 70F/21C for several months, potting up seedlings as they emerge, stratify remainder, as well as those that produce roots only, for 3 months. Very erratic germination

Regale lily, Lilium regale, seed may be stratified for 1 week or more, then sprouted at warmer temperatures, indoors in good light. Transplant after last frost and plant 6" apart. In late fall of the year after, may dig up, replant 12" apart, 6" deep, into final destination. Hardy to zone 4

Michigan lily, Lilium michiganense, grows from clumps of rhizomes; may be divided in fall. Set bulbs for the Madonna lily, Lilium candidum, just below soil level. Hardy zones 4-9